Enjoy two-way conversation about key issues with the Mayor at Community Coffeehouse events. Each session has a theme. The mayor or a special guest will present the topic, then the floor is yours. The mayor invites your questions, comments, and genuine conversation. These sessions offer two-way conversations with City leaders and staff.
Coffeehouse Event Schedule
- Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 6 p.m.: Hear from a representative from the Historic Fort Steilacoom Association that will share recently acquired artifacts for the site, as well as information about its history as the site celebrates its 175th anniversary this year.
- Tuesday, October 22, 2024, 6 p.m.
Past Coffeehouse Events
Thursday, Sept. 28, 2023, 6 p.m.: New housing laws in Washington
- Join Mayor Jason Whalen for this coffeehouse to hear from the city’s planning team about new housing laws and regulations adopted in Washington. This includes a look at zoning changes the City of Lakewood will make to meet the new requirements. The evening will be hosted at the Pavilion at Fort Steilacoom Park, 9107 Angle Lane. The Pavilion is the peach-colored building near the barns with the outdoor stage. The meeting will be held inside the climate-controlled building.
Thursday, June 15, 2023, 6 p.m.: Meet Lakewood’s New Police Chief
- Mayor Jason Whalen was joined by new Lakewood Police Chief Patrick D. Smith. Smith shared an update on his first three months with the department, his vision for the future of the department and answered questions about public safety in the city and how Lakewood police are responding and proactively policing.
Thursday, May 26, 2022: Housing & Homelessness
- Mayor Whalen was joined by representatives from Pierce County, Living Access Support Alliance, and the South Sound Housing Affordability Partners to discuss investments and policy pertaining to affordable housing and homelessness.
Thursday, March 24, 2022: Public Safety & Community Policing
- Chief Zaro presented the LPD 2021 Annual Report, crime trends, and legislative updates. He also discussed the department’s successful recruitment of 20 new officers and enhanced manpower on units investigating property crime and enforcing traffic safety.
- Mayor Whalen and Parks & Recreation Director Mary Dodsworth previewed Lakewood’s 2022 event schedule, including the return of SummerFest and a new street festival series at Colonial Plaza. Dodsworth also reviewed planned park improvements, including accessibility upgrades at American Lake Park and amazing new additions to Wards Lake Park and Springbrook Park.
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